This hearty casserole combines crispy tater tots, tasty sausage, and creamy gravy for a breakfast that’s hard to resist. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy it is to whip this up, especially for a brunch with friends or a lazy Sunday morning. Plus, who doesn’t love tater tots? They’re the real stars here! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for turkey sausage or a plant-based option if you’re looking for a lighter or meatless dish.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps thicken the gravy. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free flour blend, or cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water as a substitute.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but any type of milk works, including almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
Tater Tots: The best part! If you can’t find frozen ones, try using homemade or even hash browns for a different texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for a nice bite, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little spice.
How Do I Make Creamy Gravy Without Lumps?
Making a smooth gravy is all about the whisking! Here’s a few tips to keep it lump-free:
- Cook the flour with the sausage for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This helps cook out the raw flavor.
- When adding milk, do it gradually while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Keep stirring while cooking until the gravy thickens. A whisk is your best friend here for a smooth texture!
Your patience pays off when you taste that creamy goodness in your casserole!
Sausage Gravy Breakfast Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or your choice)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 bag (about 32 ounces) frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream or ranch dressing for drizzling (optional)
Time Needed:
This tasty casserole requires approximately 15 minutes of prep time and around 35 to 45 minutes of baking time. So in about an hour, you’ll have an incredible breakfast dish that’s ready to impress!
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly grease it so your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep it from being too greasy.
3. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked sausage. Stir this mixture well and let it cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help get rid of that raw flour taste. Next, gradually whisk in the milk while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the gravy starts to thicken, about 5–7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Remove the gravy from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, in a medium bowl, combine the gravy with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the beaten eggs. Mix it all together thoroughly for a deliciously creamy filling.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the sausage gravy mixture evenly in your greased casserole dish. Then, carefully arrange the frozen tater tots over the gravy in a single layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese all over those tater tots!
6. Bake:
Now, it’s time to bake your masterpiece! Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes. You want those tater tots to be crispy and golden brown while the casserole bubbles beneath.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Optional but highly recommended: Drizzle some sour cream or ranch dressing on top and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh kick. Serve warm and enjoy every satisfying bite of your tasty breakfast casserole!
This dish combines crispy golden tater tots on top with creamy sausage gravy beneath, enriched with cheese and eggs for a truly comforting breakfast experience. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great option for a lighter version of this casserole. You can use the same amount and follow the recipe as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven for even heating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the oven keeps the tater tots crispy!